This study builds on previous results published on the synthesis and characterization of laponite-supported titania photocatalysts. Titania nanocrystals are prepared prior to addition to the clay dispersion, by a sol-gel synthesis incorporating a microwave hydrothermal step. In addition to previously examinations with XRD, TEM, and FT-IR, the samples are further characterized with SEM, Si-29 NMR, and BET N-2 Sorption to gain additional insight into the effect of TiO2 concentration and surface area on the photoactivity of the samples. (c) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.